The Application of Self-Management Techniques in Improving Adolescents' Self-Control Over Gadget Use at Darul Muta'allimin Junior High School: An Islamic Guidance and Counseling Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to explore adolescent gadget use behavior at Darul Muta'alimin Junior High School in Sidoarjo. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The study subjects consisted of junior high school students who actively use gadgets in their daily lives. The results indicate that adolescents' motivations for gadget use include information, entertainment, social communication, and as a learning medium. Although gadgets provide positive benefits such as supporting learning activities and broadening horizons, excessive use also leads to negative impacts such as sleep disturbances, decreased concentration, and a tendency to withdraw from social interactions. Furthermore this study found that most adolescents begin using gadgets at an early age and have made them an essential part of their daily lifestyle. Gadget use increases, especially outside of school hours, for accessing social media, watching videos, playing online games, and interacting with peers. Interviews revealed that adolescents view gadgets as an effective means of self-expression and gaining social recognition, but they tend to have difficulty controlling their usage time. Family environment, parental supervision, and school policies play a significant role in shaping healthy gadget use behavior. This study also revealed that support from teachers and schools can be a crucial factor in directing gadget use toward more productive outcomes, for example through technology-based learning activities or digital literacy training. Therefore, this study recommends the need for parental supervision and school policies that support balanced and responsible gadget use, so that adolescents can use technology wisely without neglecting their social, emotional, and academic aspects.